Kenneth Clyde Maechtlen

In Loving Memory of Kenneth C. Maechtlen ~ October 1, 1928 – November 16, 2023

Kenneth C. Maechtlen, age 95, peacefully passed away on Thursday, November 16, 2023. He was born on October 1, 1928, to Herman and Adelene Maechtlen, the third of four children.

Ken’s early years were shaped by the simplicity of life on the family homestead east of Clearwater, Kansas. In high school, he met the love of his life, Marilyn Schmidt and from that point on they had quite the love story. They exchanged vows on August 6, 1950, at Immanuel Baptist Church in Wichita. For an incredible 73 years, Ken and Marilyn created a legacy of love that lives on through their three children, 9 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. He received his real estate license in 1963 and joined Wheeler-Kelly-Hagny Investments in 1964. His entrepreneurial endeavors led him to develop Edens Addition in Clearwater and Great Plains Cattle, Great Plains Alfalfa, Ken-Mar Land, Ken-Mar Farms, and PK Tower in Pratt County. He also served on several boards of professional and local organizations including the school board, the church Board of Trustees and Endowment, the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry and the Farm Land Institute.

Ken was a longtime devoted member of the Clearwater United Methodist Church and found strength in his faith. Above all, he cherished his family and found immense joy in their

company. He’s preceded in death by his parents: Herman and Adelene (Smith) Maechtlen; siblings: Ruth Hackerott-Marlett, Vivian Rink, Norma Bonham; and daughter-in-law: Victoria Maechtlen. He is survived by his wife: Marilyn (Schmidt) Maechtlen; daughter: Linda (Ted) Hill of Milton; son: Steven Maechtlen of Pratt; daughter: Michelle (John) Cochran of Mission. Grandchildren include Tracy (Gerren) Comeaux, Kendra (Jason) Wolff, Tamara (Justin) McGillicuddy, Krystal (Josh) Gruenwald, Katie Hill, Kyle (Sadie) Maechtlen, Kelly (Scott) Shorten, Ben Cochran, Kenny (Bailey) Cochran. Great-grandchildren are Kale, Cooper, Gracie, Kenlee, Madison, Addie, Jaxon and Claire.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Clearwater United Methodist Church Endowment Fund (130 N. First, Clearwater, KS 67026)

OR toward the Kenneth Maechtlen Scholarship Fund (in memo), CHECKS payable to Clearwater Community Foundation c/o Charles Engineering, PO Box 369, Clearwater, KS 67026.

There will be a visitation on Friday, November 24, 2023, from noon to 7:00 PM, with family present from 5:30 – 7:00 PM at Webb-Shinkle Mortuary, 200 S. Tracy St. Clearwater, KS 67026. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 25, 2023, at 10 AM, at the Clearwater United Methodist Church

Kenneth C. Maechtlen will forever be remembered for his character, humor and unwavering love for his family. We know his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

May his soul rest in peace and may his memory bring comfort to those who knew and loved him.

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